MAUD sits down Left of table and prepares to take down the letter.
[Dictating] "Dear Mr Mayor,—Referring to your call this morning, I have —er—given the matter very careful consideration, and though somewhat reluctant—"
MAUD. Are you really reluctant, father?
BUILDER. Go on—"To assume greater responsibilities, I feel it my duty to come forward in accordance with your wish. The—er—honour is one of which I hardly feel myself worthy, but you may rest assured—"
MAUD. Worthy. But you do, you know.
BUILDER. Look here! Are you trying to get a rise out of me?—because you won't succeed this morning.
MAUD. I thought you were trying to get one out of me.
BUILDER. Well, how would you express it?
MAUD. "I know I'm the best man for the place, and so do you—"
BUILDER. The disrespect of you young people is something extraordinary.
And that reminds me where do you go every evening now after tea?